Are you feeling under the weather? It might be the Influenza virus that is triggering you! This pesky virus can make you feel downright miserable. However, with correct information about its signs and symptoms and rapid testing by United Lab Care, you can confirm its presence earlier and start treatment before the situation worsens.
So, join us as we explore the causes, treatment, and testing options of flu in the next part of the blog.
Note: In this blog, "flu" and "influenza" will be used interchangeably to refer to the same illness.
Recognizing Influenza: Signs and Symptoms
Viral respiratory illness, or "flu," can produce various symptoms. The most typical ones are:
One of the initial symptoms of influenza is a fever, which can also include chills or sweating. Another typical symptom is a cough, which may be productive or dry. Furthermore, hoarseness or a scratchy feeling in the throat may accompany a sore throat, which makes swallowing difficult. Sneezing and a stuffy nose are other signs of flu that make it challenging to breathe through the nose.
Moreover, other Influenza symptoms can be muscle or body aches, which make it awfully hard to move around or carry out daily tasks. Another typical ailment is headaches, which can range from mild to severe. In addition, the list of flu symptoms includes fatigue or exhaustion also.
Last but not least, in some cases, the flu can cause digestive symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea, especially in children.
So, if you think you might have the flu, it's vital to get an influenza test in chicago, rest, stay hydrated, and avoid contact with others to prevent spreading the virus. Plus, if your symptoms are severe, seek a doctor's advice.
Also, remember that all the symptoms above can vary in severity. Thus, keep an eye out for these symptoms, either mild or severe.
Tackle flu: Testing and Treatment options
The number one tip for beating or tackling the flu is to get tested for it because confirming its presence directs you to take preventative measures. Therefore, let's look at the Influenza test first.
Testing:
Rapid influenza diagnostic tests (RIDTs)
In this flu test, the healthcare professional uses a nasal or throat swab to look for influenza viral proteins in the patient's respiratory secretions. Additionally, this test's outcome is available in 30 to 45 minutes, making it a valuable tool for rapid diagnosis.
Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)
This test detects the RNA of the flu infection with the help of a nasal or throat swab. It provides more accurate results compared to RIDTs. In addition, healthcare experts need specialized equipment for performing this test.
Viral culture
This type of flu testing in Chicago concentrates on growing the flu infection from a respiratory sample in the lab. Furthermore, this test could be faster and may take days to deliver results, even though its effects are reliable.
Treatment for influenza usually involves
Antiviral medications are frequently prescribed to treat the flu, especially for those at substantial risk of developing complications from the illness. It's important to remember that antiviral drugs work best when taken within 48 hours (about two days) of the start of symptoms. In addition to medication, self-care measures can help minimize flu symptoms. It includes getting enough sleep and rest. Plus, staying taking plenty of fluids like tea, coffee, soup, and hot water.
However, speaking with your healthcare professional before taking any medication is essential, especially if you have underlying medical conditions or are already taking other medications.
Don't let the flu get you down
Are you concerned that you might be sick with the flu? Don't wait to find out. Get tested today with Unite Lab Care in Chicago. Their healthcare professionals use the latest technology to provide fast, quick, and accurate results, so you can get the treatment you need as soon as possible and peace of mind.
So, don't let the flu catch you. Contact United Lab Care for your flu testing in Chicago right away.
